The Desperado LGBTQ+ Film Festival has announced the cancellation of its 17th annual event in Phoenix, citing recent executive orders signed by President Trump that restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at publicly funded institutions. As Desperado is hosted by a public college, organizers stated that continuing the festival under the new guidelines could jeopardize their funding. In a public statement, they expressed gratitude to supporters: “Thank you to our audience that has made Desperado possible for the past sixteen years. You have helped us provide a platform for underrepresented voices and celebrate the richness of the LGBTQ+ community through the power of film. We are deeply grateful.” Desperado has been a long-standing space for showcasing LGBTQ+ stories in the Southwest. Organizers have not confirmed future plans for the festival beyond this year. #trump #dei #lgbtqia #queer #uspolitics #filmfestival